Data Privacy Day, which has been happening since 1981, is an international awareness day held every year on 28 January, focused on promoting the importance of privacy, data protection, and responsible handling of personal information.
Data Privacy Day is relevant to MSPs and resellers because data protection is now a shared responsibility across the entire supply chain. Customers rely on their technology partners not just to deliver systems, but to safeguard sensitive data, ensure regulatory compliance, and reduce cyber risk across cloud, endpoints, networks and applications.
For MSPs, it’s a timely reminder to reinforce best practice around security, identity, backup and governance, while for end customers it highlights why choosing trusted, security-first partners matters.
In a world of rising breaches, AI-driven data use and tighter regulation, privacy is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s a core business requirement that affects every organisation they sell to.
Comments from the IT Channel about Data Governance & Data Privacy
Richard Bovey, Chief for Data at AND Digital comments:
“Businesses are in the middle of an AI gold rush, but many are rushing the adoption of AI without putting the right data foundations in place. Improving data quality, governance and compliance is essential, but it must be balanced with investment in skills to help employees with the confidence and capability to work effectively with data for AI to be used safely and sustainably to ensure success.”
Sachin Agrawal, Managing Director, Zoho UK comments:
“Data privacy is no longer just a compliance requirement, but rather a requirement of building trust with customers. As organisations become increasingly reliant on data and emerging technologies, protecting personal information must be embedded into every aspect of their operations. In the absence of strong data governance, the use of generic and often more consumer focused LLMs for business purposes can counter efforts to maintain strong data privacy. Organisations risk shadow AI usage with employees potentially unknowingly and unintentionally exposing sensitive information, increasing the risk of data leaks and privacy concerns for customers.”
“Customers want clarity and control over their information, and agents should only access the minimum data required not only reduce exposure but also deliver more accurate, meaningful results. Organisations that prioritise transparency will be better placed to deliver better customer experience and more meaningful, long-term relationships.”
“To realise the full potential of AI and digital transformation, businesses need to use data in a safe and secure way, and strongly educate their employees on the importance of complying with their privacy policies. Robust and clearly defined data strategies that prioritise the safeguarding of customer and employee data while allowing responsible innovation should be deployed. As developments continue at breakneck speed, organisations must work hard to understand new functionality and its risks in order to drive further success responsibly. When privacy is treated as a core value rather than an afterthought, companies not only reduce risk, but also strengthen customer confidence and loyalty.”
